To indicate emphasis, auxiliary DO is used in affirmative contexts (DO+) when no other auxiliary is present. It is thus rooted in the grammatical system of do-support; however, DO+ does not always bear stress and can fulfil various discourse-marking functions (Nevalainen & Rissanen, 1986). Positioned at the intersection of grammar and discourse, DO+ constitutes an interesting study for its use in 'non-native' varieties of English since it can be assumed that the more salient grammatical functions are easier to master for learners. Focusing on Asian Englishes in contrast to Inner Circle varieties, this exploratory paper assesses the frequency and distribution of DO+ in the spoken and written parts of eight ICE components.
To find empirical evidence for Schneider’s (2007) periodisation for the emergence of Hong Kong English, Evans (2014, 2015) scrutinised various historical documents, such as newspapers, council proceedings and jury lists. Taking the increasing use of the terms Hongkonger and Hongkong people during the 1980s as evidence for the emergence of a new Hong Kong identity, he argued that the Chinese population considered themselves part of the community. This paper systematises Evans’ (2014) approach by analysing terms denoting ingroup and outgroup members in English news discourse in Hong Kong from 1903 to 1999. By tracing changes in frequency, reference and discourse topics associated with the terms, periods of identity reconstructions are uncovered and Schneider’s and Evans’ periodisations reassessed. The study thus contributes to our understanding of the social dynamics in Hong Kong’s history, which are considered key to the emergence of Hong Kong English.
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